Start a furniture store: simple blueprint, costs, and tips

Opening a furniture store can cost as little as $5,000 online or up to $150,000 for a small showroom. Average gross margin runs near 40 percent, and most shops break even in 8 – 18 months. Follow these ten steps, then list extra pieces on Asherfield to reach more buyers fast.

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Quick cost and profit snapshot

Item	Typical number*
Start-up cost	$50,000 – $150,000 showroom • $5,000 – $20,000 online
Gross margin	35 % – 45 %
Break-even time	8 – 18 months

*Figures vary with rent, size, and inventory style.

1. Research your market

Check local income, style trends, and big-box rivals. Use Google Trends to see rising searches like “organic wood sofa.”

2. Write a lean plan

Outline niche, budget, and sales goals. Hold six months of rent and wages in reserve.

3. Count real costs

Add lease, build-out, inventory, POS, permits, and keep 10 % for surprises.

4. Start selling and license

Form an LLC, get a sales-tax permit, and secure a certificate of occupancy plus sign permit.

5. Choose your channel

Showroom + site – higher ticket sales and local delivery.
Online-only – lower rent and faster test cycles.

6. Fund the launch

SBA 7(a) loans can cover stock or real estate, and vendor credit fills inventory gaps.

7. Set prices for profit

Double cost for a 40 % gross margin, then mark down floor items older than 30 days.

8. Pick smart tools

A furniture POS like Storis tracks layaway, delivery, and large SKUs in one view.

9. Plan white-glove delivery

Special couriers place bulky pieces in-room within one to two weeks nationwide.

10. Launch lean marketing

Post SEO blogs, run city-based Google Ads, and share video reels of new arrivals.

Key takeaways

Plan cash, aim for a 40 % margin, use a furniture-ready POS, and market online early. Most stores reach break-even by month 12.

FAQs

How much money do I need to open? $50,000 – $150,000 showroom; $5,000 – $20,000 online.
What profit margin is normal? 35 % – 45 % gross.
Which licenses are required? Sales-tax, occupancy, and sign permits.
How long to break even? 8 – 18 months.
How do I fund inventory? SBA 7(a) loans and vendor credit lines.